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Climate
Cambodia can be visited throughout the year. The
climate is tropical and distinguishes three major
seasons. The most pleasant season is the try season
from November to March during which temperatures
are cooler (average 20-28 c). The hot season lasts
from March to June (average temperatures 28 -
35 c) and the rainy season from May to early October.
Note also that Siem Reap is in general cooler
than Phnom Penh
Language & Religion
The Cambodian language is Khmer, which
is inherited itself - and advanced in education
with application of Indic languages Pali and Sangkrit
from India. Also, the Khmer language is influenced
by spoken and written Thai. Some technical languages
are borrowed from French. However, English is
commonly communicated in hotels and business compounds
at present days.
Thearavada Buddhism is the official religion in
Cambodia which is practiced by 95 percent of the
population-- just like that of Thailand, Burma,
Sri Lanka. However, Christianity and Cham Muslim
are being active and popular among a large number
of population as well in the capital and provinces,
showing a sign of growth. Daoism and Confuism
are also commonly practiced among the Chinese
people.
General Advise & Health
Drink lots of water. Never drink tap water purified,
bottled water is available everywhere.
Use an insect repellent against mosquitoes. It
is the only way to be sure of protection against
mosquito borne diseases. Since Cambodia has a
hot and humid tropical climate, casual and light-weight
clothing is best. Clothing made from natural fibers
is the best option. A jacket might be needed on
cool winter evenings or in hotels and restaurants
using excessive air-conditioning. A hat and high-factor
sun block is advisable as protection against the
hot sun when sightseeing.
When visiting temples or pagodas, including those
of Angkor Wat, shorts and T-shirts are acceptable.
Shoes are generally removed at the entrance to
pagodas. For visits to the Silver Pagoda, which
is within the Royal Palace grounds. visitors are
asked to dress more formally. Gentlemen are required
to wear long trousers and ladies should wear long
trousers or long skirts.
Standard film, (such as Kodak, FUJI or Konica
100, ) and slide Non are widely available. Photos
are inexpensive to process in the country. Any
specialized photo equipment should be brought
with you. Photography in airports, railway stations
and near any military installations is forbidden
and discretion should be used when photographing
people, particularly monks. The cheapest &
best quality photo service in Phnom Penh is SPK
Photo Studio FUJI Shop and New Siem Reap Photo
Shop.
Health Requirements
Although no vaccinations are officially required
for entry to Cambodia, they are highly encouraged.
Visitors are advised to check with their doctor
or a travel immunization clinic regarding protection
against malaria, typhoid, tetanus, hepatitis A
and B. Any essential medications should be brought
with you as there is no guarantee they will be
available in Cambodia. |
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